Dang! First Setback...

Had an unexpected setback on Friday. Got my blood test back and Brett said that my protein levels were way low. He quizzed me on my protein intake and we figured I was taking in no less than 130 grams of protein per day. The nutritionist I use up at ACAC wants me to increase my protein intake to 168 grams per day and maintain my exercise regimen Have to get another test in June. Oh well, beats the alternative. Since I've been plateaued for awhile this will be a good way to get a second wind and then go for the last 35 to 40 pounds. Meanwhile for those that haven't tried it, I tried the Spinners program for the first time on Thursday evening. It's great. Spinners is a great cardio exercise. It is a full 45-minute biking marathon. The instructions goads you into continuing, continually increasing your intensity level, and pressing you up those hills and jumps, and up and downs on the bike. I was dripping wet when I got off the bike, but felt great. It was my first time on a bike in at least fifteen years. I think I'll end up replacing one of my normal cardio programs with the Spinners once a week, since it definitely works a lot of different muscle groups and it is definitely good for you head. Hope everyone is up and working... Rob

I'm really surprised about your setback, Rob. I always thought of you as being very, very protein oriented and never would have thought this could happen to you. Good luck with the increase... Dianne

It's not a matter of not being protein oriented, since almost every bit of intake I have is protein. It's more of a question of where is it going. It's also a reminder to get those blood tests since they are the only way to determine if protein levels are sufficient. This is my fourth test since surgery and all the others were fine. Just shows that you can't take anything for granted. Rob

Oh, I know. That's why I'm so shocked. And hope that I can do as well as you with the protein intake. Spinners sounds fun.

Hi Rob, I'm sorry to hear about your protein problem. Since you had a good intake, do they know why you aren't absorbing? I guess this serves as a good reminder to us all that even if our testing comes back good for months that things can still come up even tho we're doing everything right. I hope you get everything back in line soon. The Spinners class sounds fun! I have seen them advertised before but never knew anyone who took one before. Isn't it so cool that exercise is so much fun now! Make sure you keep us posted on your progress. Linda

Despite your setback I think you are doing great Rob! I haven't had any blood test as of yet but am due to get one on Wednesday. I fear my protein levels will be low too. I also go for an ultra sound on Wednesday to see if anything shows as to why I have these pains once in awhile that last for a day or two and keep me down. You are an inspritation to all of us Rob!!! Keep up the great work!! Hope

Wow Rob...you set me straight with the protein! I am doing 70-80 grams a day...I have to get my tests done, havent yet. I better get a little more in! Sorry to hear you are having some set backs We'll keep ya in our prayers and I hope you pull through the protein slump soon. Thats just not fair being how much protein you get in! Best Wishes to you! Elizabeth M -49lbs

That just doesn't make sense does it? Hopefully when they restest everything will be fine. My protein is on the low side - 18 - but that is becasue I'm lucky to average 50 grams a day. At least it is understandable. Here is one thing to consider - Brett & Dr. Wynn have a different idea of what a "Way Low" protein level is. Now off the top of my head, I can't remember if your Dr. is Wynn or Iragau but here is my experience. When my level was a 16 Brett told me it needed to be at least 30. When it was an 18 Dr. Wynn told me it was low but not too bad but it hould be at least 20. I didn't even think to ask her abotu what Breett had told me earlier becasue I was not thinking about it at the time. Like I said - hopefully next month everything will be fine - maybe it was a lab technician error? But if not have them tell you what the leve is. Ask your Dr. as well as Brett what their opinion is on your level. Maybe your dietician too or put n a phone call to Dr. Baag to get his opinion. Being an endocrinologist, his may be the best opinion anyway. You do so well beyond "good" with protein - this just makes no sense. I'm not sure what ACAC is - but did they say why "168" was a good number for you to switch to? It jsut seems as though 130 should be more then sufficient. You really are a great inspiration - 40 lbs from goal?? whoo hoo... Talk to me NEXT year at this time lol

Hey Rob, Maybe Kathy V is right....maybe just a "lab error"? Hope everything works out, no matter what. Ken

Hi Rob, I am glad you are not discouraged. You are doing fantastic! Thanks God you found our about the protein now so you can work on it. Thanks for sharing this info as I will be heading that way soon and it is good to realize what I need to be aware of also. (surgery date is still 7/19). See you soon and keep up the great work. Cycling .... way too cool!